Buyers seek to purchase Appledore

Unite has welcomed the revelation that there are now three consortiums actively seeking to purchase the mothballed Appledore shipyard in North Devon.

Unite understands that a final announcement on which consortium will be given the green light to buy the shipyard is imminent and it is hoped that shipbuilding at the historic site will return this year.

Since the shipyard’s closure in March 2019, Unite has led the lobbying campaign at both a regional and national level for it to re-open.

When it is confirmed which consortium has been successful, Unite will engage in negotiations with the yard’s new owners about opportunities for the former workforce to return. When the yard was closed some workers were made redundant, while others were transferred by the previous owners Babcock to its shipyard in Plymouth.

Unite regional secretary for the South West Steve Preddy said, “The latest developments are good news for a strong community and skilled workforce that never gave up the fight for their shipyard.

“With the right support and vision Appledore can and will have a secure long-term future, protecting hundreds of skilled workers while offering proper apprenticeships to coming generations,” he added.

“We look forward to working with whichever consortium is ultimately successful to complete the deal and get this yard and community back on its feet.”

By Barckley Sumner